A dog standing in some lavender.

Is Lavender Safe For Dogs?

Lavender is a popular herb with a pleasant aroma and a variety of uses, including as a natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with lavender for pets, especially dogs. So, is lavender safe for dogs?

Lavender is generally safe for dogs. The lavender essential oil can be toxic to dogs if it is ingested in large amounts, but mild skin irritation is the most common side effect of lavender exposure in dogs. If you want to use lavender products with your dog, it is important to use them in moderation and follow the instructions on the label. It is also a good idea to speak with your veterinarian before using any new product on your dog, just to be safe.

Is Lavender Safe For Dogs?

A dog standing in some lavender and looking at the camera.
Beautiful image here.

Lavender is generally safe for dogs, but it is important to use it appropriately. The lavender essential oil can be toxic if ingested by dogs in large quantities.

Undiluted essential oils can irritate the skin and cause redness, itching, or other adverse reactions. It is best to dilute the oil in a carrier oil, such as almond or coconut oil, before using it on your dog.

In general, it is best to use caution when introducing any new substance, including herbs and essential oils, to your dog. It’s always best to consult with a veterinarian first as well.

Potential Risks Of Lavender For Dogs

There are a few potential risks to be aware of when using lavender with dogs.

Toxicity

Ingestion of large quantities of lavender essential oil can be toxic to dogs. Symptoms of toxicity in dogs can include vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and changes in behavior. 

If your dog ingests a large amount of lavender essential oil, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.

Skin Reactions

The undiluted lavender essential oil can be irritating to the skin and may cause redness, itching, or other adverse reactions.

As mentioned before, it is important to dilute the oil in a carrier oil, such as almond oil or coconut oil, before applying it to your dog’s skin.

Allergic Reactions

It is possible for dogs to have an allergic reaction to lavender, although this is relatively rare. Symptoms of an allergic reaction in dogs can include itchiness, redness, swelling, and difficulty breathing

If you suspect your dog is having an allergic reaction to lavender, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.

Symptoms Of Lavender Poisoning

Lavender poisoning can occur if your dog consumes large amounts of lavender from the plant, eats candles containing the essential oil, or licks the essential oil. Signs of lavender poisoning include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Bloated abdomen
  • Fever
  • Inability to pass stool
  • Shock
  • Vomiting
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Trembling in dogs
  • Diarrhea
  • Changes in behavior, such as lethargy or agitation
  • Loss of appetite
  • Seizures

What Should I Do If My Dog Consumes Lavender?

If you suspect your dog has ingested lavender, it is important to take action quickly. Here are a few steps you can take:

  1. Try to determine how much lavender your dog has ingested and how long ago it was consumed. This information will be helpful for your veterinarian.
  2. Contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control hotline for guidance. They will be able to advise you on the appropriate course of action based on the amount of lavender ingested and the size and breed of your dog.
  3. If your dog is showing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, or changes in behavior, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. The veterinarian may induce vomiting to remove the substance from your dog’s stomach, and they may also provide supportive care such as fluids therapy to help prevent dehydration.
  4. Follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian or the pet poison control hotline. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your specific situation.

It is always a good idea to keep the phone number of a pet poison control hotline handy in case of emergencies.

If you are uncertain whether your dog has ingested a toxic amount of lavender, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian or a pet poison control center for guidance.

Tips For Using Lavender With Dogs

Here are a few tips for using lavender with dogs:

  1. Use caution when using lavender essential oil. If your dog ingests a larger amount accidentally, it can be toxic. So, it is important to keep all essential oils out of reach of pets. It is always a good idea to dilute the concentrated oil.
  2. Consult with a veterinarian or a certified aromatherapist for guidance on the appropriate dosage of lavender for your dog. Overdosing on lavender can cause side effects such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
  3. Keep an eye on your dog when using lavender, and be aware of any changes in behavior or health. If you notice any adverse reactions or symptoms, discontinue use and consult with a veterinarian.
  4. Consider using other forms of lavender, such as dried lavender flowers or lavender tea, rather than lavender essential oil. These forms of lavender are less concentrated and are less likely to cause adverse reactions in dogs.

In Conclusion: Is Lavender Safe For Dogs?

Lavender is generally safe for dogs when used appropriately. Still, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with using it with pets. 

So, what do you plan on doing with lavender that might affect your dog? Let us know in the comments below!

Dr. Majid Tanveer (DVM)
Dr. Majid Tanveer (DVM)
Dr. Majid is a licensed veterinarian, writer, and animal welfare advocate. He obtained his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan. He has been working as a senior veterinarian for five years. Over the last few years, Dr. Majid has worked extensively for the betterment of animal welfare and rights in his country. He is also a proud owner of a dog, which he loves dearly. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his dog and indulging in his hobby of writing.